- DOJ shifts to requiring criminal intent proof in DeFi cases.
- Ethereum and DeFi protocols see boosted confidence.
- Policy change expected to increase financial innovation.
The U.S. Department of Justice announced an end to blanket prosecutions of DeFi developers, requiring proof of criminal intent for liability, as stated by Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti.
This change boosts confidence in Ethereum and decentralized finance, fostering greater venture capital interest and innovation, with implications for legal clarity and market growth.
DOJ’s Policy Shift on DeFi Developer Prosecution
The U.S. Department of Justice has announced an end to blanket prosecution of DeFi developers. Effective immediately, criminal intent must be proven for liability. This policy shift aims to boost confidence within the Ethereum ecosystem and wider decentralized finance.
Matthew R. Galeotti, Acting Assistant Attorney General, emphasized that writing code without ill intent is no longer a crime. The DOJ’s focus now shifts to prosecuting intentional misconduct rather than developers’ third-party misuse liability.
Immediate effects include heightened confidence from institutional investors in DeFi projects. Ethereum and its protocols potentially benefit, with lower legal risk encouraging further developer activity and innovation.
Financial projections suggest the DeFi sector could grow at a 49% CAGR, reaching $351.8B by 2031. Regulatory clarity could drive venture capital and large grant influxes, sparking industry growth.
Market analysts are expecting a rise in Total Value Locked and increased DeFi liquidity. Regulatory clarity is seen as pivotal for ensuring innovation, with developers embracing reduced risk to expand project roadmaps.
Historical trends indicate similar DOJ policy shifts have fostered technological innovation. Observers anticipate a renewed push in project expansions and launches within Ethereum and DeFi development teams.
“Our view is that merely writing code, without ill intent, is not a crime.”
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